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What Is a Medical Assistant Externship?

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Growth Projections of PTAs Over the Next 5-10 Years

The role of , the employment of PTAs is projected to grow by 19 percent from 2022 to 2032. This growth is driven by an aging population, increasing prevalence of chronic conditions and a greater emphasis on rehabilitation and long-term care. As the demand for physical therapy services expands, so too does the need for skilled PTAs across various healthcare settings. Outpatient clinics are among the most common workplaces for PTAs. In these settings, PTAs assist patients who are recovering from injuries, surgeries or managing chronic pain. They work under the supervision of physical therapists to implement treatment plans, which may include exercises, manual therapy and the use of modalities such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation. In hospitals, PTAs are integral to the acute care team, helping patients regain mobility and strength after surgery, illness or injury. This setting often involves working with patients who have complex medical conditions, requiring a high level of adaptability and skill. Rehabilitation centers focus on long-term recovery, particularly for patients with severe injuries, neurological conditions or after major surgeries. PTAs in these facilities play a critical role in the patient’s rehabilitation journey, helping foster progress over short or long stays, depending on the patient’s unique needs. Home health care allows PTAs to bring their skills directly to patients in their homes. This setting is particularly beneficial for patients who have mobility issues or prefer the comfort of receiving care at home. In skilled nursing facilities, PTAs assist elderly patients or those with chronic illnesses in maintaining or improving their functional abilities. A physical therapy assistant may also work with patients who are recovering after surgeries, falls or those with chronic conditions that effect mobility. Are you inspired to join this rapidly growing field? Here at the St. Louis College of Health Careers, we offer an exceptional designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. here on our website or by giving us a call at 866-529-2070.

The Growing Demand and Opportunities for Registered Nurses

Registered Nursing (RN) remains one of the most in-demand professions in the healthcare industry, with faster-than-average projected job growth of between 2022 to 2032 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This trajectory is fueled by evolving healthcare needs, increased spending on healthcare, demographic shifts and advancements in medical technology. As the backbone of patient care delivery, play a vital role in promoting health, preventing illness and providing compassionate care to individuals across their lifespan. The healthcare landscape is continuously evolving, driven by factors such as population growth, aging demographics and the prevalence of chronic diseases. With an aging population comes an increased demand for healthcare services, including preventive care, chronic disease management and long-term care. Registered nurses are essential members of the healthcare team, providing skilled nursing care, medication administration, patient education and emotional support to patients and their families. Moreover, advancements in medical technology and healthcare delivery models have expanded the scope of nursing practice, creating new opportunities for registered nurses to specialize in areas such as telehealth, informatics and community-based care. The evolving healthcare needs of diverse patient populations require a versatile and skilled nursing workforce capable of adapting to changing trends and delivering high-quality, evidence-based care. The demand for registered nurses extends across various healthcare settings with an estimated for registered nurses each year over the next decade. This includes job opportunities in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, community health centers and specialty practices. RNs have the flexibility to pursue diverse career paths ranging from direct patient care roles to leadership positions in nursing administration, education, research and advanced practice. Ready to embark on a rewarding career in nursing? Explore , we offer comprehensive education and training programs designed to prepare you for success in the dynamic field of nursing. at 866-529-2070 and learn about rewarding paths to nursing career advancement.

What Is Nursing Licensure?

Nursing licensure is a critical aspect of a nurse’s professional journey, representing a formal recognition of their qualifications and competence to practice nursing in a specific jurisdiction. It is a legal requirement in most states to ensure that nurses meet established standards of education, training and ethical conduct to provide safe and effective patient care. A nursing license grants individuals the legal authority to practice nursing within a defined scope of practice. It signifies that the nurse has met the minimum requirements set forth by the licensing authority. To qualify to sit for the formal licensing exam, test takers must have completed . They only gain certification after passing a standardized licensure examination (such as the NCLEX-RN in the United States) and meeting any additional state  requirements for employment as a nurse. Obtaining and maintaining a nursing license is a multifaceted process that requires dedication, diligence and ongoing commitment to professional development. While the specific requirements may vary by jurisdiction, the overarching goal is to ensure that nurses possess the knowledge, skills and ethical standards necessary to provide safe and effective patient care. In addition to meeting initial licensure requirements, nurses must also fulfill ongoing obligations to maintain their licensure status. This often involves completing continuing education credits, renewing the license at regular intervals and adhering to the nursing code of ethics. By staying abreast of changes in healthcare regulations and best practices, nurses can uphold the highest standards of care and demonstrate their ongoing competency as healthcare professionals. Graduating from an accredited nursing program is the foundational first step on the path to obtaining a nursing license. These programs, offered by colleges, universities and vocational schools , provide aspiring nurses with the essential knowledge, skills and clinical training needed to excel in the field. Nursing programs must meet rigorous standards set by accrediting bodies to ensure they are providing the skills and modern clinical experience that healthcare employers are looking for in new nurses. Education at an accredited institution indicates graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce and provide safe, competent patient care. One of the most critical requirements for obtaining a nursing license is passing a licensure examination, such as the NCLEX-RN (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses) or NCLEX-PN (for Practical Nurses). These examinations assess the candidate’s understanding of nursing theory, clinical skills and ability to apply critical thinking in various patient care scenarios. Passing the licensure exam demonstrates that the nurse possesses the necessary knowledge and competence to practice safely within their scope of practice. Many jurisdictions require nursing license applicants undergo a criminal background check as part of the licensure process. This check helps ensure the safety of patients by identifying any past criminal convictions or disciplinary actions that may raise concerns about the applicant’s suitability for licensure. Depending on the jurisdiction, certain criminal offenses may disqualify an individual from obtaining a nursing license, while others may require further review. Nursing license applicants may need to comply with additional state requirements specific to the area where they’re applying for nursing positions. You should look up the requirements with the division of professional registration for the state in which you’re seeking employment, such as the Missouri Division of Profession Registration. The defines the specific requirements for licensure requirements in the state. When considering different vocational schools that offer nursing diplomas or degree programs, it’s important to confirm accreditations prior to enrollment. Only the successful completion of a program offered by an accredited institution will allow you to sit for the relevant NCLEX exam. With our dedicated faculty and comprehensive curriculum, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the dynamic field of healthcare. here on our website or get more information by calling us at 866-529-2070.

Population Health and the Role of Nurses Who Have Earned a BSN

In recent years, the concept of population health has become more important in the healthcare industry. It represents a shift in focus from treating individual patients to improving the health outcomes of entire communities or populations. At the heart of this approach are healthcare professionals who play a crucial role in promoting wellness, preventing disease and improving health outcomes within a community, geographic area or socioeconomic group. There’s typically an increased emphasis on compiling accurate data on health indicators to identify health trends and disparities within populations to allocate resources more effectively. Nurses can potentially play a role in the development and implementation of population health efforts. In some circumstances, front-line nurses are uniquely positioned to make significant contributions to population health initiatives. Population health involves efforts to improve the health outcomes of groups of individuals, including communities, cities or even entire nations. It involves addressing the social, economic and environmental factors that influence health, in addition to ensuring clinical care is distributed and tailored to maximize positive impact, especially where shortcomings exist. Rather than focusing solely on the treatment of individual patients, population health initiatives aim to prevent illness, promote healthy behaviors and address the root causes of health disparities within populations. Nurses who have If you’re ready to make a difference in the health of communities, you may want to learn more about the offered by St. Louis College of Health Careers. Our comprehensive program prepares nurses to excel in diverse healthcare settings, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to positively impact individual patient outcomes as well as contribute positively to population health. today at 866-529-2070 to learn more about our RN to BSN program and the types of career paths it may qualify you to pursue.

Exploring Additional Training and Certifications for Long-Term Care and Home Health Nurses

Long-term care and home health nurses play a vital role in providing essential medical care and support to individuals with chronic illnesses, disabilities or age-related conditions. The foundational education and licensure entry-level nurses earn can provide an exceptional foundation on which to start a career, but many nurses are interested in going on to pursue employment in a specific field of care, such as long-term care or home health nursing. Attending specialized training programs or earning additional certifications may make you a more attractive hire for the job role you aspire to attain. Nurses working in long-term care and home health typically begin their careers with a solid foundation in nursing education and licensure. This foundational education equips them with the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver quality care to patients in various healthcare settings. Whether they’re , their initial training prepares them for the diverse challenges they may encounter in all types of active care environments. Long-term care facilities cater to individuals with complex medical needs, often requiring specialized care approaches. Nurses who are working in these settings benefit greatly from additional training focused on geriatric nursing, dementia care, wound management and end-of-life care. Certification programs in these areas may provide nurses with valuable expertise and enhance their ability to meet the unique needs of long-term care residents. Although there may be some roles that require certain certifications, in many cases, they simply enhance a nurse’s resume. Significant hands-on experience in relevant care settings may be viewed as just as important (or even more valuable) than formal certification and training. In other words, gaining specialized certifications won’t hurt your chances of advancing your career, but hands-on experience may be just as valuable for some job roles. In many cases, it depends on what the employer requires or values. Home health nursing presents its own set of challenges, including the need for autonomy, adaptability and strong communication skills. To excel in this field, nurses may pursue certification specifically tailored to home health care. One example is the Home Health Nursing Certification offered by the which is intended to validate a nurse’s proficiency in delivering care in the home setting. State regulations governing nursing practice vary, and these regulations may influence the additional training and certification requirements for long-term care and home health nurses. Employers may also have specific preferences or policies regarding the qualifications and credentials they seek in candidates for these nursing roles. If you’re a registered nurse or practical nurse interested in pursuing more specialized roles, it’s likely in your best interest to stay informed about local state regulations and the common expectations of employers in that field. Tailoring your future educational pursuits to those criteria will better prepare you for future applications and job interviews. Continuing education is crucial for nurses working in long-term care and home health settings to stay abreast of best practices and advancements in healthcare. Engaging in ongoing professional development opportunities allows nurses to enhance their clinical skills, expand their knowledge base and provide the highest quality of care to their patients. Whether through formal education programs, workshops or online courses, nurses can continually evolve and grow in their careers. If you wish to pursue long-term care or home health nursing or want to learn more about the opportunities in growing healthcare fields, we encourage you to explore the exceptional offered at St. Louis College of Health Careers. today here on our website to begin your enrollment or give us a call at 866-529-2070 for more information.

Are There Fewer People Going Into Nursing Post-COVID-19?

Put simply, no. While there are concerns that nurses are .   Hospitals saw a dramatic staffing shortage during the pandemic that they’ve yet to fully recover from. The overwhelming hours brought on by the pandemic, compounded by a high case workload and exacerbated anxiety, took a toll on nurses, resulting in some nurses retiring early or pursuing different career paths.   COVID-19 was a strenuous time for nurses that led to added stress in an already high-pressure job. Nurses faced increased risks of exposure to COVID-19 while caring for an unprecedented influx of patients. The demand on their time and increasing workload made it difficult for some nurses to get back home long enough to recover for their next shift.   Although nurses were on the front line and became familiar with some aspects of COVID-19 earlier than the average person who wasn’t in the medical field, there were still many facets of the condition they learned about along with their patients. Anxiety about exposure in the early months was particularly bad for nurses.   On the front line of the pandemic, many were concerned about their personal safety as well as the safety of their families. They had to wear a sometimes excessive amount of personal protective equipment (PPE) – masks, gloves, gowns, etc. – to protect themselves and their families, which made it difficult to use the restroom, drink water, stay cool or even breathe easily. And that was if they were lucky to have a reliable supply of PPE. Because the general public also wanted to acquire enough PPE to protect themselves, supplies started to run low, which hurt hospitals the most.   All of this contributed to the high-stress environment during prolonged, irregular shifts that sometimes lasted longer than the traditional 12-hour maximum. The conditions made it difficult to maintain an adequate work/life balance.   This led to the massive drop-out in staff during COVID-19 and well afterward. According to NCSBN, approximately after the pandemic, or too emotionally drained and exhausted to keep working.   While a majority of those who retired or are planning to do so soon are older and are merely leaving the workforce a little early, a sizable minority (nearly 200,000) are younger than 40. As a result, of healthcare organizations have reported a significant staffing shortage.   A serious shortage has led to high demand, meaning hospitals and doctor’s offices are having to pay more to attract and keep qualified nursing applicants. Many programs that introduced online courses during the COVID-19 pandemic are still offering them, which makes working while getting your degree easier.   Because of the shortage, nursing is growing more quickly than many other occupations. The RN workforce is projected to expand by . There’s never been a better time to apply to a reputable nursing program that will help you hone your skills and put your best foot forward in your career.   Get the education you need to stand out in your nursing career at St. Louis College of Health Careers. We offer comprehensive LPN, RN and Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs that provide the comprehensive education and training students need to sit for certification exams and succeed in their field. Our course offerings are designed to optimize your critical thinking and reasoning skills so you can give your patients high-quality care in any setting.   With online and in-person options, as well as staggered semesters that start throughout the year, students can get an accredited education on their schedule. Explore and start your application today by calling 866-529-2070.

5 Least Stressful Nursing Jobs

To be clear, no nursing job is stress-free. Dealing with the safety, health and well-being of patients can be inherently stressful, and nursing may not be the ideal career path for people who struggle with those responsibilities.   While highly rewarding, nursing is a demanding profession with long hours and high pressure situations, some of which a nurse may have very little control over. That said, some specialties are objectively more draining than others. Primarily, ICU, NICU and emergency room nurses are among the most strenuous positions in the field. Those workplaces require nurses to deal with rapidly occurring, high-stakes situations and physically exhausting work over the course of a 12-hour shift. While these positions have their benefits, including the opportunity to perform meaningful, hands-on and potentially life-saving work, there are other, less fraught positions nurses can fill.                   The experienced staff at St. Louis College of Health Careers will prepare you thoroughly for your desired position. Providing accredited associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s programs, including some with fully online options, we’ll give you the rigorous education you need to start your career with confidence.   At St. Louis College of Health Careers, we thoroughly prepare our students to become LPNs, RNs, healthcare administrators and more. With reputable staff, challenging courses and hands-on clinical training, you can trust that you’ll receive the skills and confidence you need to perform optimally in any nursing profession you choose.   Take the first step toward your dream nursing career. Call 866-529-2070 to learn more about and apply today.

What Job Should I Have While in Nursing School?

Attending nursing school while working full or part time, on top of potentially caring for your family, isn’t easy, but it can be done with thoughtful time management and realistic goals. You can reduce the stress of working while in school by choosing a job that isn’t as demanding as nursing school, that’s amenable to your schedule and, ideally, is relevant to your nursing program.   CNAs assist nurses in routine patient care, helping bathe and feed patients and monitor their vital signs. This job has fewer duties (and thus less pressure) than a full-time nurse while also giving students hands-on exposure, helping them develop essential skills they can utilize in school and their careers.   PCTs are similar to CNAs, but the position can be more demanding, having more responsibilities such as performing EKGs and basic medical procedures. As a PCT, students can gain valuable exposure and experience. However, these positions may offer far less scheduling flexibility compared to a CNA.   Enrolling in an EMT course before nursing school can allow students to work as an EMT during their program, which has the benefit of a personalized schedule and the opportunity to gain crucial healthcare skills such as working in emergency situations, quickly diagnosing patients and administering treatment under pressure. However, this job can be immensely stressful, which can be detrimental if your nursing program is already difficult.   , providing a dual-purpose stepping stone.   Medical scribes document patient visits in real time for patient assessment, helping nurses and doctors focus on interacting with patients without worrying about taking notes for future reference. This position will give students deeper insights into medical terminology and the daily workflow of a clinic, making it useful to those studying to become nurses and administrators alike.   HHAs provide care to patients at their homes, assisting with their daily routines and medication regimens. These positions can give students access to flexible shift-oriented schedules and a comparatively low-pressure work environment, as well as experience in patient care and forming relationships.   will find this job especially useful, as they’ll gain insight and experience into how hospitals operate.   Nursing school represents a significant investment of time and resources for students, and working while in a program may be a necessity. Between rigorous coursework, exams, hands-on training and lab work, it can be challenging to fit a job into your education.   Staying organized, planning ahead and having understanding employers can help make the juggling act easier to balance. The stress of school and work can also take a toll on your mental health – exercising, sleeping regularly and taking some time to relax whenever possible will help protect you from burnout .   Choosing the right program can also make working while in school easier – especially for degree paths that can be . Certain programs can require rigid, in-person coursework that can make earning money on the side nearly impossible.   St. Louis College of Health Careers’ programs have start dates throughout the year and are designed to be accommodating to students’ needs without compromising academic quality. Our staff understands the struggles students face and strives to be accommodating. Some programs are fully online, so working professionals looking to advance their careers can take courses on their own schedule while still enjoying a reputable and accredited medical education.   Receive a comprehensive yet flexible medical education that will thoroughly prepare you for a fulfilling career in nursing at St. Louis College of Health Careers. Our nursing programs offer a compelling combination of in-depth coursework and ample real-world experience so you gain the knowledge you need to tackle your certification exams and be ready to enter your chosen career with confidence.   Reach our admissions team at 866-529-2070 to learn more about and start your application today.

What to Do to Prepare Yourself for a Career in Nursing

Nursing is a fruitful profession with a wide variety of career paths and significant income and professional growth potential. Although educational options to qualify for certification exams are nowhere near as expensive or time-consuming as medical doctor programs, aspiring nurses do have to commit to study and education to gain practical nursing skills and real-world experience.   High school and college students thinking of pursuing nursing can start their careers on the best footing by taking the time and effort to prepare themselves for the rigorous (but ultimately rewarding) path ahead before they’re in nursing school.   Because healthcare is a science, you’ll want to focus on the relevant classes. Prioritize math and science, particularly biology, anatomy and physiology if offered, taking challenging AP courses if you’re in high school or more advanced courses if you’re in college. You should also acquire first aid and life support certifications outside of school, which can be valuable assets to highlight in your applications. Building a reliable foundation of medical knowledge will give you a competitive edge as a nursing school applicant.   One of the most effective ways to find out if a career in nursing is for you is to volunteer at your local hospital. Shadowing nurses and seeing first-hand what their day-to-day duties look like will give you a better understanding of what a career in nursing, both the rewarding and challenging parts, might entail. Volunteer work has the added bonus of bolstering your nursing college application. Volunteering can also give you a sense of the various specializations in nursing and may help you decide if any in particular excite you.   Before you begin your application, you’ll need to choose from a variety of nursing degrees and diploma paths. There typically isn’t just a general “nursing” degree you can apply for. Students will need to decide between a Licensed Nurse (LN), Registered Nurse (RN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree – each of which has distinct benefits, drawbacks and unique job offerings.   For example, a to qualify to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam. Registered nurses may have access to higher-paying positions of greater responsibility.   A may technically be the longest program, but students don’t have to pursue all 120 credits in a single, prolonged sitting. Many students pursue the process in parts, starting with the practical nursing diploma before pursuing the LPN to RN associate degree and then finishing the last 60 credits of the RN to BSN coursework entirely online.   Graduates of the RN to BSN program have the educational foundation to pursue a broader range of nursing positions afterward, including leadership positions in a variety of medical practices.   Aside from choosing a specific degree, it’s also helpful if you have an idea of which specialization you’d like to pursue. Nursing specializations include but are not limited to geriatrics, pediatrics, oncology, surgery, dermatology, orthopedics and palliative care. While you don’t have to decide your specialization immediately, many students discover a specific area of interest or a type of care they find particularly fulfilling while in nursing school. Having a general direction can ensure your medical education is relevant to what you’re interested in, helping you make the most of the nursing program.   Picking the right school is crucial. While personal success ultimately depends on the student, not the school, the right school will give you ample support, providing you with the guidance and resources you need to perform well in your duties and one day reach your dream nursing career.   At St. Louis College of Health Careers, we offer a wide selection of robust programs that cater to a variety of nursing positions and specialties. Our experienced nursing instructors provide hands-on experience and rigorous coursework so students can hit the ground running and start a fulfilling medical career confidently. We’ll help you develop outstanding skills in your field, including critical thinking, patient communication, collaborating with other healthcare professionals, patient safety and more   At St. Louis College of Health Careers, we mold aspiring nurses into skilled professionals who are well-prepared to meaningfully contribute in hospitals and medical offices the moment they’re hired. You’ll learn from experienced faculty who will work one-on-one with you to strengthen your ability to provide compassionate and effective patient care and implement treatments with hands-on training and clinical experience.   We also offer s.   Get an edge over the applicant pool. Learn more about our programs and today by calling 866-529-2070.